Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Size and Share:

The global diethylene glycol (DEG) market size was valued at 3.38 Million Tons in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach 4.74 Million Tons by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.8% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 42.3% in 2024. The market is mainly dominated by its vital function in the polyester sector, growing uses in automotive and building industries, and improvements in manufacturing technology, with developing economies having a major role to play in its demand growth.

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market is driven by several key factors, including its widespread use in various industrial applications such as automotive, textiles, and chemicals. DEG is a critical component in the manufacture of antifreeze, coolants, and solvents, and so it is in great demand in the automotive and industrial industries. The increasing application of DEG in the production of polyurethane and plastic products also plays a major role in driving the market forward. As industries continue to evolve, the demand for DEG in the production of resins and coatings, especially in the construction and furniture industries, further propels market expansion. Increasing industrialization, particularly in emerging economies, is expected to continue driving DEG consumption.

In the United States, the DEG market benefits from a strong industrial base and the presence of established manufacturing sectors. The demand for DEG in automotive fluids, including antifreeze and coolants, remains high, particularly with the growing production of electric vehicles, which require advanced cooling systems. Furthermore, the well-developed chemical manufacturing industry in the U.S. ensures a steady demand for DEG in plastics, solvents, and coatings. Besides this, strict government regulations on DEG manufacturing drive companies to adopt enhanced safety measures to protect consumers and products. For instance, in May 2023, the FDA issued definitive guidelines on inspecting high-risk pharmaceutical ingredients for DEG and EG contamination. It advises producers, distributors, and suppliers on preventing impurities to ensure product safety and consumer protection.

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Trends:

Increasing demand in the polyester industry

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market is primarily driven by its extensive use in the production of polyester resins and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). DEG, as a key raw material, contributes significantly to the properties of polyester resins, enhancing their durability and versatility. The growth in the polyester industry, fueled by the rising demand for polyester fibers in textiles and PET in packaging applications, directly impacts the demand for DEG. The global polyethylene terephthalate market size reached USD 31.3 Billion in 2023. The textile industry's expansion, particularly in emerging economies with growing populations and increasing disposable incomes, plays a crucial role in this growth. Moreover, the shift towards PET in packaging, due to its recyclability and weight advantages over traditional materials, further amplifies the demand for DEG.

Growth in the automotive and construction industries

DEG finds applications in antifreeze and coolant formulations, which are essential in the automotive sector. The growth of the automotive industry, especially in developing countries, is a significant factor driving the DEG market. This growth is attributed to increasing vehicle production, the rise in consumer spending power, and the growing emphasis on vehicle maintenance. Additionally, DEG is used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, widely utilized in the construction industry for laminates, coatings, and fiberglass reinforcements. The global unsaturated polyester resins market size reached USD 13.9 Billion in 2024. The ongoing expansion in construction activities, driven by urbanization and infrastructural development, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions, such as China and India, also plays a pivotal role in propelling the DEG market forward.

Advancements in technology and diversified applications

Continual technological advancements in the production process of DEG have led to more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing, making it more accessible for various industries. Innovations in production techniques have enabled the use of alternative raw materials and energy-efficient processes, contributing to market growth. Furthermore, DEG's diversified applications across different sectors, such as in the manufacture of solvents, plasticizers, and personal care products, broaden its market scope. The global beauty and personal care products market size was valued at USD 529.5 Billion in 2024. The versatility of DEG in various applications, ranging from industrial uses to consumer products, underscores its growing importance and drives the market's expansion. The increasing utilization of DEG in emerging applications, such as in the formulation of printing inks, paints, and adhesives, also contributes to its market growth.

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global diethylene glycol (DEG) market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on application and end use industry.

Analysis by Application:

• Antifreeze and Coolant
• Solvents
• Humectants
• Polyester Resins and Plasticizers
• Emulsifiers and Lubricants
• Others

Polyester resins and plasticizers lead the market with around 53% of market share in 2024, driven by high demand from the construction, automotive, and packaging industries. DEG is widely used in unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), essential for fiberglass-reinforced plastics, coatings, and adhesives. In plasticizers, DEG enhances flexibility, durability, and processing efficiency in polymer manufacturing. Growth in infrastructure projects, lightweight automotive components, and sustainable packaging solutions continues to drive consumption. Regulatory shifts toward eco-friendly materials are also influencing production trends. The sector’s high-volume consumption and broad industrial applications make it a key driver of global DEG demand.

Analysis by End Use Industry:

• Agrochemical
• Automotive
• Cosmetic and Personal Care
• Paints and Coatings
• Oil and Gas
• Textiles
• Plastics
• Others

Plastics leads the market with around 20.2% of market share in 2024, owing to its role in polyester resins, plasticizers, and polymer production. DEG enhances flexibility, durability, and processing efficiency in various plastic formulations. Its use in unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) supports applications in automotive parts, construction materials, and packaging solutions. The growing demand for lightweight, high-performance plastics in automotive, electronics, and consumer goods sectors further strengthens its market position. Sustainability initiatives and regulatory shifts are encouraging innovations in bio-based plastics, influencing DEG consumption trends in advanced and eco-friendly material development.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 42.3%, driven by large-scale production, strong industrial demand, and expanding end-use applications. The region benefits from cost-effective manufacturing, abundant raw materials, and a well-established chemical sector. Increasing demand from automotive, plastics, coatings, textiles, and pharmaceuticals supports market growth. Moreover, rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and regulatory policies influence production and consumption patterns. The region is also a key exporter to other markets, ensuring a steady supply chain. Furthermore, continuous investments in capacity expansion, technological advancements, and sustainable alternatives further strengthen its position as the dominant player in the global DEG industry.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

In 2024, United States accounted for 87.60% of the market share in North America. The U.S. diethylene glycol (DEG) market is poised for steady growth, driven by its wide range of industrial applications. DEG is essential in the production of antifreeze, cooling agents, and polyester resins, which are integral to sectors such as automotive, construction, and packaging. The increasing demand for these materials, fueled by the expansion of the automotive and construction industries, further supports DEG consumption. Additionally, DEG’s role in producing solvents and coatings within the chemical sector bolsters its market position. The U.S. specialty chemicals market, which includes DEG, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.12% from 2024 to 2032, reflecting the positive trajectory of the chemical industry. Moreover, the rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives is pushing manufacturers to explore bio-based DEG production, creating further growth opportunities. The ongoing focus on infrastructure development, coupled with the growing consumer base for automotive products, continues to fuel the need for DEG in fluid systems. These factors, alongside sustainability efforts and innovation in bio-based chemicals, position the U.S. DEG market for sustained growth in the coming years.

North America Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market holds prominence in North America due to strong industrial requirements and well-developed manufacturing bases. The region maintains its market strong position through substantial DEG production activities in automotive and plastics industries together with the textiles sector. For instance, as per industry reports, in 2024, prices of DEG in the US increased 3.1% primarily due to disruption caused by Hurricane Helene, a massive Category 4 storm. The growing demand for DEG in the production of anti-freeze, coolants, and solvents further strengthens its position. Additionally, the presence of major players in the chemical industry, coupled with ongoing advancements in DEG production technologies, fuels market growth. Increasing industrialization and a focus on sustainability also contribute to North America’s prominence in the DEG market.

Europe Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market in Europe is benefiting from strong industrial demand, particularly in automotive, construction, and textiles, where DEG is a critical component in the production of antifreeze, coolants, and polyester resins. The automotive sector’s continued growth, driven by advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technologies, fuels the need for DEG in fluid systems. Additionally, Europe’s commitment to sustainability is accelerating the adoption of bio-based DEG production, aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable products. According to report, 71% of European consumers are inclined to purchase sustainable products, which further drives the shift towards eco-friendly chemicals like DEG. The European Union’s Green Deal and stringent environmental regulations are encouraging companies to focus on reducing their carbon footprint, creating further opportunities for the bio-based DEG market. With increasing demand across various industries and a focus on sustainability, the DEG market in Europe is set to experience continued growth. 

Asia Pacific Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market in Asia-Pacific is experiencing significant growth, driven by rapid urbanization in the region. East Asia and the Pacific is the world’s most rapidly urbanizing area, with an average annual urbanization rate of 3%, as reported by the World Bank. This growth is particularly prominent in countries like China and India, where increasing urban populations are driving demand for DEG in industries such as automotive, textiles, and construction. DEG plays a vital role in the production of antifreeze, automotive fluids, and polyester resins, all of which are critical to the region’s expanding automotive and infrastructure sectors. Additionally, the growing demand for chemicals in textiles, coatings, and adhesives further fuels the need for DEG. The region is also witnessing a shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly chemicals, providing opportunities for bio-based DEG production. With these trends, the DEG market in APAC is set to continue its upward trajectory.

Latin America Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market in Latin America is benefiting from the region's urbanization, which has reached approximately 80%, higher than most other regions, according to reports. This rapid urban growth is driving demand for DEG in industrial applications such as antifreeze, automotive fluids, and polyester resins. The expanding automotive and construction sectors, particularly in countries like Brazil and Mexico, further fuel this demand. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly production methods presents opportunities for bio-based DEG production. These factors position the DEG market in Latin America for continued positive growth.

Middle East and Africa Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Analysis

The diethylene glycol (DEG) market in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing growth, supported by the region’s urbanization, which stands at 64%, as reported by the World Bank. The demand for DEG is being driven by industrialization and infrastructure development in countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, particularly in applications like antifreeze, automotive fluids, and textiles. The growing interest in sustainable, environmentally friendly chemicals further boosts DEG consumption. With the continued expansion of the automotive and construction sectors, the DEG market in the region is expected to see steady growth.

Competitive Landscape:

The Diethylene Glycol (DEG) market is highly competitive, with major production hubs, such as China, India, and the United States. For instance, as per industry reports, DEG market in India is expected to grow around 340 thousand tonnes by FY2030, representing high production rate and active participation of manufacturers. Moreover, demand is sustained by automotive, plastics, coatings, and pharmaceutical industries, with increasing focus on safety regulations and quality standards. In addition, manufacturers prioritize capacity expansion, technological advancements, and sustainable alternatives to strengthen their presence. Furthermore, the growing adoption of bio-based glycols creates both challenges and opportunities, pushing companies to innovate and adapt in response to environmental concerns and shifting market preferences.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the diethylene glycol (DEG) market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• BASF SE
• India Glycols Limited
• Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited
• LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.
• Merck KGaA
• Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
• Nippon Shokubai Co. Ltd.
• Pon Pure Chemicals Group
• Reliance Industries Limited
• Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Saudi Aramco)
• Shell plc
• TCI Chemicals (India) Pvt. Ltd.

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2024: Clariant showcased its latest healthcare products at the CPHI tradeshow in Milan, Italy, from October 8-10, 2024, highlighting excipients designed to support pharmaceutical development, particularly in the injectables segment. The company introduced VitiPure™ LEX 3350 S, VitiPure LEX 4000 S, and Polyglykol 1450 S, which address the challenges of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) delivery and bioavailability. These excipients, including diethylene glycol derivatives, met stringent microbial control standards and surpassed general pharmacopoeia requirements for parenteral applications.
• July 2024: Sixty small drug manufacturers have enrolled in a government program to modernize their units to meet global good manufacturing practices (GMP). This follows reports in 2023 of toxic Indian pharmaceuticals, including cold medications and syrups, contaminated with diethylene glycol (DEG), causing fatalities in regions like North America, Africa, and Central Asia. The World Health Organization (WHO) issued alerts about DEG levels exceeding the safe limit of 0.10%.
• January 2021: Fluor Corporation announced that MEGlobal’s 750,000 metric-ton-per-year facility in Oyster Creek, Texas, producing monoethylene and diethylene glycol, has been named a "Best of the Best" Project by Engineering News-Record (ENR). The facility, operational since October 2019, was completed ahead of schedule, within budget, and with 3.7 Million continuous site hours without a recordable incident.
• September 2019: The EQUATE Group announced the opening of its new MEGlobal site in Oyster Creek, Texas, which houses a 750,000 metric-ton-per-year ethylene glycol (EG) manufacturing facility. The site, part of EQUATE’s subsidiary MEGlobal Americas, produces both monoethylene and diethylene glycol, which are used in products such as polyester fibers, PET bottles, antifreeze, paints, and construction materials. 

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the diethylene glycol (DEG) market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global diethylene glycol (DEG) market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the diethylene glycol (DEG) industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.